One to Buy: 52,000km 1993 BMW E31 850 CSi on Type 2 AC Schnitzers
Although the radical M8 never made it into production, BMW Motorsport did work their magic on another iteration of the E31 8-series: the 850 CSi.
Unusually, the 850 CSi did without the familiar M-badging, but it otherwise followed BMW Motorsport’s familiar approach of an optimised chassis and tuned engine combined with some subtle cosmetic enhancements and a few bits of special interior equipment.
Perhaps most notably, the 850 CSi came with an enlarged 5.6-litre version of the original 5-litre V12 found in the 850 CSi. This S70 B56 unit offered considerably improved output figures and, when coupled with the CSi-specific six-speed manual transmission, gave the car a phenomenal turn of speed despite its not inconsiderable 1865kg weight.
Currently on offer at the Tomini Classics showroom in Al Barsha, Dubai, is an 850 CSi that left the Dingolfing production line in arguably the best colour scheme for one of these cars: Metallic Black.
Also equipped with the optional two-tone interior (with Black with White leather), it was completed on February 2nd 1993 and delivered to a German customer. Instead of the 17-inch M System II wheels originally fitted, it rides on a set of stunning AC Schnitzer Type 2 five-spoke alloys that, if matched with body coloured centres, would really place the car in another league looks-wise.
This handsomely configured example of BMW’s ultimate 90s Coupe is showing a little under 52,000km from new and comes complete with its original manuals, tool kit, service records and first-aid kit.
Reprinted below is Tomini Classics’ description:
Year: 1993
Exterior: Black metallic
Interior: Black / white leather
Mileage: 51,900 kilometres
The BMW E31 was born as a replacement for the legendary ‘Shark’ 6-Series E24. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1989, it took the brand on a technological leap to establish BMW as a serious contender to the large-displacement sports coupés offered by Mercedes and Aston Martin.
Over $800M USD were spent over large part of a decade (1981-1989), utilizing cutting-edge CAD design and a team of 2,000 people studying everything from aerodynamics, fuel grades, temperature resistance, engine reliability, and of course, the timeless styling from the pen of Klaus Kapitza.
Retailing nearly at $90,000 USD in 1990, the E31 was offered with a 5L V12 (850i) and a 4L V8 (840i); later increasing engine displacement to 5.4L and 4.4L in the mid-nineties. In 1992, BMW released a top-of-the-line 850csi model, sporting a 5.6L V12, stiffer dampers, lower suspension, tighter steering, four-wheel steering, rear differential oil cooler, and many other minor stylistic and performance changes over the standard V12 model.
Famously, the 850csi’s heart went on to live in modified form in the McLaren F1, with larger displacement (6.1L), different heads, and other significant improvements.
This particular E31 is one of the ~1,500 850csi models produced. A desirable European version meant for the German market, it was completed on February 2nd, 1993.
Our client purchased the car in the late 2010’s, and sent it to BMW Classic (Germany) for a thorough mechanical recommissioning, and later, in Dubai, returned it to its original black colour from a silver repaint.
Currently equipped with Schnitzer wheels, this car presents in its original configuration as it left the factory, and comes with manuals, tools, service records, and first-aid kit.
As it is, this special consignment is an enjoyable driver ready to benefit from the next stage of restoration to realize its maximum level of investment potential, and be worthy of international ‘youngtimer’ events.
